The spirit of intellectual progress will fill SUNY Old Westbury this April as classrooms turn into galleries and lecture halls transform into laboratories of imagination. For one day, the campus will trade ordinary schedules for discovery, debate and artistic expression.
That day is Student Research Day, returning on April 16, 2026, as an annual celebration of academic and creative excellence. The event, under the OW STEAM program, gathers students, faculty, and staff to share research, showcase innovation, and highlight the spirit of curiosity that defines the Old Westbury experience.
“Most of the time in universities, we’re in our little silos,” said associate professor of chemistry and physics and organizer of the event Matthew Lippert. “Physics students are doing physics research, biology students are doing biology. Research Day breaks those walls down so we can hear about all the cool stuff students are doing across campus.”
Student Research Day isn’t just an academic fair; it’s a campus-wide showcase that reflects the university’s commitment to hands-on learning, faculty mentorship and student achievement.
Sponsored by the School of Arts and Sciences, School of Education, and the School of Business, the event encourages students to present their work in a professional setting while connecting with peers and mentors across disciplines.
From scientific experiments and social science surveys to multimedia projects, art installations, and performances, the day will feature a wide range of presentations. The students will assume control of the classrooms, providing insight into the ongoing student research activities at Old Westbury.
Faculty mentors play an essential role by guiding and approving student projects, ensuring the event maintains high academic standards. Many students view the opportunity to share their research publicly as both a professional milestone and a valued experience.
The event is free and open to the entire Old Westbury community, with activities planned across multiple campus venues. Attendees can walk through the classrooms and public halls to view presentations throughout the day. Any student that wishes to apply can do so through an online application, and they will be available for the spring semester.
“We’re really making a big effort this year to reach out to departments that are maybe not as well represented, like Education, Business, English, and Visual Arts,” said Lippert.
The theme of this year’s Research Day is ‘Bridging The Divide.’ The theme calls attention to the opportunity to come together as people through shared research.
“There are many things that divide us… in the country and even in the university,” said Lippert. “The goal of this year’s theme is to bring people together and get them talking across disciplines.”
The April 2026 showcase is expected to feature dozens of student presenters and faculty mentors. Planning is already underway to make the event a highlight of the spring semester. All students are encouraged to participate and attend.
Student Research Day. April 16, 2026. Displays at designated areas throughout campus. Admission is free and open to the public.
